M A Y 2 0 1 5 O U T P A T I E N TS U R G E R Y. N E T 2 3
• any infectious waste must be disposed of in accordance with federal, state and
local regulations; and
• the disinfectant must be left wet on surfaces for 30 seconds when treating
against HIV and 10 minutes when treating against hepatitis B.
Another important note: Limited data suggests that bleach may be the best
disinfectant against Clostridium difficile. Studies have shown that the use of
a fresh 1:10 dilution can help reduce
C. diff transmission.
6. The entire OR floor must be mopped after every case.
a. true
b. false
Answer: b
You only have to mop the entire OR floor during terminal cleaning or if there's a
chance body fluids dripped or splattered outside of the immediate surgical area.
Any visibly soiled areas of the floor outside of the surgical area must be cleaned
after each case.
It's also important to note that the floors should be the last surface you clean,
since particles from shoes and equipment wheels can easily transfer and con-
taminate the surface. Also note that microfiber mops with disinfectant are more
effective than cotton loop mops. No matter what, make sure you're using an
EPA-approved germicidal agent and a new or fresh mop head each time.
7. When using disinfectant wipes, you should only use _______________.
a. each wipe once
b. each side of the wipe once
c. 1 wipe to clean several surfaces
